Chief Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Chief EstimatorAbout Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG)Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is a leading mechanical contractor specializing in commercial HVAC, Plumbing, Piping, and Mechanical Construction. Originally formed through Anderson Mechanical Services, Inc. and Inspiration Plumbing Company, VMG brings decades of industry experience together with a forward-thinking approach to delivering high-quality mechanical solutions.As we continue to grow, we are looking for an accomplished Chief Estimator to lead our estimating function and help shape the continued growth of our Preconstruction team. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing estimating strategy, developing a high-performing team, and ensuring VMG consistently delivers accurate, competitive, and well-developed proposals for complex commercial mechanical projects.This position is remote with occasional travel to VMG's Virginia office and project locations as business needs require.What You'll DoLead the Estimating TeamLead, mentor, and develop a team of Estimators while establishing clear expectations for quality, accuracy, and performanceOversee estimating workload, priorities, assignments, and deadlines across multiple opportunitiesReview major estimates and proposals for accuracy, completeness, competitiveness, and overall strategyEstablish and maintain consistent estimating standards, processes, and best practicesProvide technical guidance and support on complex scopes, pricing strategies, and project opportunitiesHelp recruit, develop, and retain strong estimating talent as the organization continues to growDrive Estimating StrategyOversee the development of budgets, conceptual estimates, negotiated proposals, hard bids, and design-build estimatesLead estimating strategy for complex commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projectsEvaluate project scope, labor requirements, material costs, equipment, subcontractor pricing, and overall project riskAnalyze historical project data, market conditions, labor trends, and material pricing to improve estimating accuracyIdentify project risks, opportunities, value-engineering options, and cost-saving strategiesParticipate in final bid reviews and provide recommendations to executive leadership before submissionPartner Across the BusinessCollaborate closely with Executive Leadership, Preconstruction, Operations, Project Management, Engineering, and field teamsLead and participate in preconstruction, scope, and bid review meetingsEnsure estimating strategies align with project execution plans and overall business objectivesSupport successful project handoffs from Preconstruction to OperationsPartner with Project Managers and field leadership to incorporate lessons learned into future estimatesServe as a key resource for leadership when evaluating project opportunities and pursuit strategiesStrengthen Partnerships & ProcessesDevelop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, clients, and industry partnersEvaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals to ensure complete and competitive coverageIdentify opportunities to strengthen purchasing power and improve overall project valueEvaluate and implement estimating tools, technology, and processes that improve efficiency and accuracyMaintain and improve historical cost databases, estimating standards, and benchmarking informationDrive continuous improvement throughout the estimating and preconstruction processWhat You Bring8+ years of progressive estimating experience within commercial mechanical or general constructionDemonstrated experience leading, mentoring, or managing an estimating team or departmentStrong knowledge of commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction systemsExtensive experience developing and reviewing complex estimates, budgets, and proposalsStrong understanding of labor productivity, material pricing, equipment costs, subcontractor scopes, and construction cost driversExperience with negotiated work, hard bids, conceptual estimating, and/or design-build projectsAbility to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, contracts, and technical documentationStrong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilitiesExcellent leadership, communication, presentation, and negotiation skillsAbility to communicate effectively with project teams, clients, executives, vendors, and subcontractorsProficiency with estimating software and construction management technologyPreferred ExperienceSignificant estimating experience with a commercial mechanical contractorExperience leading estimates for large-scale and complex HVAC, plumbing, and piping projectsProven experience building, developing, and improving estimating teams and processesExperience participating in executive-level bid reviews, client presentations, and negotiationsStrong relationships within the subcontractor, vendor, and supplier communityExperience implementing estimating technology, standardized processes, or departmental improvementsBachelor 's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience consideredWhat We OfferCompetitive base salary with performance-based incentive opportunitiesMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company matchPaid time off and company holidaysRemote work with occasional travel to VMG's Virginia office and project locationsOngoing professional and leadership development opportunitiesA key leadership role with significant visibility and impact across the organizationOpportunities for continued advancement as VMG growsA collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where your ideas and leadership make a differenceWhy VMG?At VMG, Preconstruction is more than developing a number. It's where project strategy begins. Our estimating team plays a critical role in identifying the right opportunities, developing competitive solutions, managing risk, and positioning our projects for success before construction begins.As Chief Estimator, you'll have the opportunity to lead and develop our estimating team, influence major project pursuits, strengthen our preconstruction strategy, and help shape how VMG continues to grow.If you're an experienced estimating leader who combines deep mechanical construction knowledge with strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a drive for continuous improvement, we'd like to hear from you.This position is remote with occasional travel to VMG's Virginia office and project locations as required.Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employment visa sponsorship.Vertical Mechanical Group participates in a drug testing program. All candidates are required to submit to a drug test as a condition of employment.Apply today and help shape the future of Preconstruction at VMG.VMG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.